Michael Allen Walstrom, age 74, passed away peacefully at home with family December 25, 2020 after a year long battle with ALS. Michael was born September 24, 1946 to Allen and Bernice Walstrom. He grew up in Fruitland Ridge and graduated from South Fork High School in 1966. Mike was drafted into the military in 1966 and served in the 68th Assault Helicopter Company, 145th Aviation Battalion until 1967. After Vietnam, Mike moved back to Humboldt County and landed in Rio Dell, where he started working at Pacific Lumber Company.

Mike met and married the love of his life, LeeAnn, in 1976 after a short courtship. They enjoyed life in Rio Dell until 1988 when they moved to Fortuna. Mike’s greatest joy came from his two children, Scott and Holly. He was so proud of both of his children. Once his grandchildren, Jordan and Madison were born, you would often hear him bragging about what they were up to. He loved watching them grow and enjoyed every minute he spent with them. The newest addition to the Walstrom family is his great granddaughter, Hailey Magnolia, she brought so much happiness to his life this last year.

Mike worked over 38 years for the Pacific Lumber Company as a Locomotive Operator then as a Machinist before he retired from PL in 2008. He left there with many close friends that he considered family. Always the busy body and hard worker he started working for Best Western as their maintenance man. He loved working with the crew at the Best Western and they always held a special place in his heart. Even after he retired from the hotel, he would visit the BW staff to have a coffee and gossip. He was always ready to help anyone who asked and enjoyed fixing anything that needed to be worked on. You could always find him in his shop making bird feeders or working on other projects for his family and friends. Mike’s favorite place to spend his spare time was at their Ruth Lake property, Swedish Flat. He spent many years working hard to build a beautiful home away from home. He loved having everyone gather for cocktails, to share stories, relax and create life long memories. Mike enjoyed spending every hunting season at the cabin with his friend Jim Barsanti. There was always more projects and cocktails then hunting.

In later years Mike and LeeAnn enjoyed traveling from Mexico, Alaska to New York, Maryland and Canada. They created many memories throughout their travels. Mike made friends easily and touched many hearts throughout his life. Above all, Mike was a devoted husband, a caring father, a loving grandpa and a true friend. He will be missed by all.

Mike is survived by his wife LeeAnn; his son Scott Walstrom and wife Kristy of Spiro Oklahoma; his daughter Holly Nally and husband Justin of Carlotta; his grandchildren Jordan and Madison; great granddaughter Hailey Magnolia; brother Steve Walstrom and wife Lynn along with many nieces and nephews.

Our family would like to thank everyone who reached out during Mike’s illness, especially Steve and Lynn, Jim and Linda Barsanti, Mike and Sue Strahan and Jan and Vern Belisle. You all hold a special place in our hearts. Mike is proceeded in death by his parents Allen and Bernice Walstrom, sisters JoAnn Gillum and Leona Collins.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to:

The ALS Association Golden Chapter
P.O. Box 565
Agoura Hills, CA. 91376-0565
In Honor of Michael Walstrom.

Friends and Family are invited to celebrate Mike’s life at the Fortuna Nazarene Church 1355 Ross Hill Rd. at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 30, 2020.

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